README for XFree86 3.3 on NetBSD and OpenBSD : Running X
Previous: Configuring PEX and XIE extensions
Next: Kernel Support for X

6. Running X

8mb of memory is a recommended minimum for running X. The server, window manager and an xterm take about 4 Mb of memory themselves. On a 4Mb system that would leave nothing left over for other applications like gcc that expect a few meg free. X will work with 4Mb of memory, but in practice compilation while running X can take 5 or 10 times as long due to constant paging.

The easiest way for new users to start X windows is to type: ``startx >& startx.log''. Error messages are lost unless you redirect them because the server takes over the screen.

To get out of X windows, type: ``exit'' in the console xterm. You can customize your X by creating .xinitrc, .xserverrc, and .twmrc files in your home directory as described in the xinit and startx man pages.


README for XFree86 3.3 on NetBSD and OpenBSD : Running X
Previous: Configuring PEX and XIE extensions
Next: Kernel Support for X